Have you noticed anything different about Sudbury lately?
True, fall is in the air, but so is optimism, excitement and a renewed sense of community pride. Much of it can be credited to the new ownership of our Wolves and long-awaited momentum on plans for a new arena, Place des Arts, Franklin Carmichael Sudbury/Public Library and Synergy Centre that will realize a vision for Greater Sudbury that until recently was just that — a vision.
What has, in the past, defined us to outsiders will — in the near future — be a part of our proud, rich history. Greater Sudbury is on the cusp of becoming a hub for arts, culture, entertainment and sport. It’s what Sudbury is meant to be. It’s what we deserve as a community.
So what is going on at the Sudbury Art Gallery? Where are we with the plans for a new gallery? These are questions that I hear time and time again, not only from our members, but from members of the community who are anxious for something new and exciting to happen in their fair city.
Well, I am happy to report that there are great changes in store for the City of Greater Sudbury. The projects being considered by council will further enhance our fabulous quality of life. These will present new activities, attractions and amenities that will keep our young people here to work and raise families; attract visitors and new workers to Sudbury.
At the Art Gallery of Sudbury, we share council’s vision for a vibrant and well-rounded, inclusive city. Art is more than paintings on walls. The arts attract businesses, visitors and new residents, contributing to increased tax revenues. Cultural offerings enhance the market appeal of any city. In the new economy, business success depends on an ability to recruit skilled knowledgeable workers. Consequently, the arts and cultural offerings of a region are often considered by companies and workers when deciding where to relocate.
We also know that the arts attract tourism dollars. Public support of cultural tourism plays a critical role in community revitalization, as well as the expansion of tourism. As Sudbury’s downtown revitalization evolves, it is important to keep in mind that cultural development will have an important role to play. Greater Sudbury deserves a top class art gallery that will serve as a hub for arts and culture in the North and play a massive role in realizing a vibrant Greater Sudbury.
Our work towards this most important realization continues as we work jointly with the Greater Sudbury Public Library to determine the most efficient and attractive way to deliver these services to the community and its visitors.
Our capital campaign is underway and an official launch is being organized. Although we realize the extent to which Sudbury residents are already highly solicited, we also know that they are generous and well aware of the importance of ensuring the city’s vitality and enhancing quality of life, not only for themselves, but for their children and future generations to come.
Josèe Forest-Niesing
Board Chair, Art Gallery of Sudbury